Jordan Hill, a former ringleader of a county lines drug operation, has been exposed for his extravagant lifestyle, flaunting a gangster image before his eventual downfall.

In striking photographs captured prior to his legal troubles, the 33-year-old dons a conspicuous thick gold chain while lounging on a sunbed during a holiday. Additional images shared on his Facebook profiles showcase him sporting designer clothing and a flashy gold bracelet.

Beneath the veneer of luxury, Hill was deeply involved in a notorious gang that trafficked drugs with an estimated value of nearly £250,000 from Coventry into the picturesque towns of Stratford-upon-Avon and Leamington Spa. West Midlands Police believe this criminal network distributed a staggering 2.5 kilograms of crack and heroin to Warwickshire towns throughout its operation, spanning from January 2019 to July 2020, even amidst the Covid lockdown.

The gang used a prolific drug hotline, bombarding potential buyers with marketing messages such as “Come and get ur tackle, still in stock. Best of both” and “Active around the clock. Best in town.”

Hill, a senior figure within the criminal organisation, oversaw deliveries, managed other gang members, engaged in violent activities, and took orders. Throughout the case, law enforcement authorities managed to safeguard several vulnerable individuals, including a 17-year-old girl and a one-year-old baby. In one instance, a man was apprehended for drug dealing while accompanied by a young child.

The collaborative efforts of the West Midlands Regional Organized Crime Unit and Warwickshire Local Police teams led to the dismantling of the drug network.

In a court hearing at Birmingham Crown Court, Hill confessed to conspiracy charges related to the distribution of heroin and crack cocaine. He was subsequently sentenced to 12 years and six months in prison. West Midlands Police have described him as a “significant” player in the operation.

Previously, eight other members of the gang had received lengthy prison sentences, totaling 56 years collectively.

The operation’s masterminds operated from a distance, earning up to £1,500 per day, while maintaining control over their associates through threats, violence, and a fearsome reputation.

The drug runners faced constant threats, including armed confrontations with rival gangs and the risk of being arrested on the streets, as highlighted by the police force.

In the course of their investigation, law enforcement officers seized over 1,000 wraps of heroin and crack cocaine, along with nearly £10,000 in cash.

During Hill’s sentencing, His Honour Judge Cooke acknowledged his leadership role within the gang, noting that he had supervised others, including a 17-year-old. The judge also emphasised the involvement of vulnerable individuals who had been manipulated by the gang and pointed out Hill’s use of violence on certain occasions.